Completion: 2011
Square Footage: 60,000 renovation

The Young Research Library was originally designed by renowned architect A. Quincy Jones in the 1960s. Our multi-phased renovation to the library supports the evolving educational and research needs of students and staff. We incorporated new technologies and re-designed spaces to create a welcoming, multi-purpose facility while respecting its modern legacy. We opened the interiors to take advantage of natural light and used contextural materials to create a rich and inviting atmosphere. The renovated lower level creates a study commons for more than 100 users and offices for staff. On the first level, new amenities such as meeting and event spaces, collaborative spaces and a café have been added.

Themes of journey, discovery and collaboration guided the library re-design. Upon arrival, the user experience has been transformed with sliding glass doors, light colors and clear glass walls providing transparency and visual access. A wide central circulation spine dubbed “The Street” runs through the center of the main floor with new program spaces visible and branching off from “The Street.” Display screens, a 2-story vertical ticker, QR codes and custom environmental graphics created by our Branded Environments team guide users on their journey through the library and provide information on library collections, services and events. According to university librarian Gary E. Strong: “This renovation… offers a model for other academic libraries around the world.”